2001 Bmw Z3 problems
The BMW Z3 is a range of two-seater sports cars which was produced from 1995 to 2002. The body styles of the range are:
- 2-door roadster (E36/7 model code)
- 2-door coupé (E36/8 model code)
The Z3 was based on the E36/5 compact platform, a shortened version of the conventional E36 platform. This smaller and cheaper platform used the rear semi-trailing arm suspension design from the older E30 3 Series. It is the first mass-produced Z Series car.
M models were introduced in 1998 in roadster and coupé body styles and were powered by the S50, S52, or S54 straight-six engine depending on country and model year. The M models came with a 5-speed manual transmission. The regular Z3s were offered with straight-sixes or four-cylinder engines.
Production ended on June 28, 2002, with the Z3 line replaced by the E85 Z4.
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Common 2001 Bmw Z3 problems
The BMW Z3, produced from 1996 to 2002, is a popular roadster known for its style and driving dynamics. However, like any car, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years.
One of the most common issues with the BMW Z3 is oil leaks from the lower engine area. This problem is often caused by the failure of the oil filter housing gasket or the valve cover gasket. These gaskets can deteriorate over time, causing oil to leak and potentially damaging other engine components.
Another common problem with the BMW Z3 is the failure of multiple power steering hoses simultaneously. This issue can cause a loss of power steering assist, making the car difficult to maneuver. It is often caused by the failure of the power steering hoses due to age and wear.
The Check Engine Light and/or engine overheating are also common problems with the BMW Z3. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty sensors, a malfunctioning cooling system, or a damaged engine block.
Wet seats are a common problem with the BMW Z3, particularly after it rains. This issue is caused by the roof leaking, where it connects with the front window. The leak can cause the seats to become wet, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the car's interior.
Rattling seats are another common problem with the BMW Z3. This issue is caused by the plastic bush clips on the seats breaking, causing the seat to rattle. The rattling noise can be distracting and annoying, making it difficult to enjoy the driving experience.
Exhaust manifold failure is a common problem with the BMW Z3, particularly on the 1.9L engine. This issue is caused by a crack in the exhaust manifold, which can result in a loud cracking noise coming from the top of the engine. The crack can cause the engine to run poorly and potentially damage other engine components.
Engine misfiring is a common problem with the BMW Z3, particularly on the 1.9L engine. This issue is caused by a problem with the valve timing, which can result in the engine misfiring and running poorly. The misfiring can cause the engine to run inefficiently and potentially damage other engine components.
Alarm problems are also common with the BMW Z3. This issue is caused by faulty micro switches, particularly on the door or bonnet. The faulty micro switches can cause the alarm to go off on its own accord, which can be frustrating and inconvenient.
Corrosion is a common problem with the BMW Z3, particularly on early cars. This issue is caused by accident damage, neglect, or age, and can result in rust bubbling up around the boot lock and mirror bases. The bumpers are made of plastic, so they are not susceptible to corrosion, but other parts of the car can be affected.
In summary, the BMW Z3 is a popular roadster known for its style and driving dynamics. However, like any car, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years. These include oil leaks from the lower engine area, failure of multiple power steering hoses, Check Engine Light and/or engine overheating, wet seats, rattling seats, exhaust manifold failure, engine misfiring, alarm problems, and corrosion. Owners of the BMW Z3 should be aware of these common problems and take steps to address them as needed to ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicle.
What is the most common problem with the BMW Z3?
Common complaints about the BMW Z3 include oil leaks, faulty sound systems, and leaking power steering fluid.
How many miles will a Z3 last?
The estimated lifespan of a Bmw Z3 is 150,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
Is it worth it to buy a Z3?
Elsewhere, the Z3 is very practical, generally reliable and the parts supply is excellent, as much of the car was shared with the contemporary 3 Series. There is no shortage of Z3s so it's a buyer's market.
How much does it cost to maintain a BMW Z3?
The annual maintenance cost of a BMW Z3 is $691. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
What is the most common problem with the BMW Z3?
Common complaints about the BMW Z3 include oil leaks, faulty sound systems, and leaking power steering fluid.
How long do Z3 engines last?
I've seen BMW blocks with 300k miles with factory cross hatching still visible on the cylinder walls. They're fantastic engines. If you properly maintain it, it will outlast the rest of the car.
Is it worth it to buy a Z3?
Elsewhere, the Z3 is very practical, generally reliable and the parts supply is excellent, as much of the car was shared with the contemporary 3 Series. There is no shortage of Z3s so it's a buyer's market.
Are BMW Z3 prone to rust?
Now that the average M Coupe and M Roadster are 20-25 years old, naturally they can suffer with corrosion underneath. The most common area we regularly see corrosion growing in is the Z3 Sills & Jacking Points. The Z3 chassis has 2 Sill Panels: Outer Sill Panel (bolted, body-colour, available to purchase from BMW).
2001 Bmw Z3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bmw Z3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
- Seats problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Equipment problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Bmw Z3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2001 Bmw Z3 complaints
The NHTSA has received 18 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Bmw Z3.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-01
- VIN: WBACN53461L
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG INDICATOR LIGHT ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL HAS BEEN ALIGHT FOR SOMETIME. I'M NOT CERTAIN IF IT'S AN AIRBAG FAILURE OR WHETHER IT'S ON THE DRIVERS OR PASSENGER SIDE. I WAS SURPRISED NOT TO FIND MY AUTO INCLUDED IN THE TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL LIST EVENT. CAN YOU SHED ANY LIGHT ON THIS MATTER? IF SO, MANY THANKS IN ADVANCE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-10
- VIN: WBSCL93431L
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PASSENGER AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS ON WHEN ENGINE IS ON. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE,TIRES,SEATS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-03
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE,TIRES,SEATS,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: 2001 BMW Z3. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SEVERAL VEHICLE PROBLEMS AND UNSATISFACTORY CUSTOMER SERVICE FROM DEALERSHIP. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED HE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE ON EBAY. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS ARRIVED AND THEN EVALUATED, HE WAS INFORMED THE TIRES WERE OVER 10 YEARS OLD, SEVERAL LIGHTS WERE INOPERABLE, BOTH FOG LIGHT AND LEFT PARKING AND TURNING LIGHTS DID NOT WORK. THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE DASHBOARD, THE SEAT BELT GUIDE ON THE DRIVER'S SEAT WAS BROKEN, THE SEATS SLID FORWARD WHEN STOPPING WHICH CAUSED HIM, TO UNEXPECTEDLY STEP ON THE ACCELERATOR THE REAR WINDOW WAS SCRATCHED AND FADED TO ZERO VISIBILITY, THE MAIN SPEAKER WAS BLOWN. IN ADDITION, A MANIFOLD HOSE REQUIRED REPLACEMENT DUE TO A LEAK, THE KEYS HAD TO BE REPROGRAMMED TO UNLOCK THE DOORS AND TRUNK. *JB THE DASHBOARD WAS CRACKED, THE REAR BRAKES FAILED UPDATED 04/15/15*JB
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-17
- VIN: WBACN53421L
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DOORLOCK CYLINDER ASSEMBLY INSIDE DOOR BREAKS, CAUSING LOCK CYLINDER NOT TO BE HELD IN PLACE & WHEN KEY IS INSERTED IN LOCK CYLINDER THE WHOLE LOCK CYLINDER JUST TURNS WITH THE KEY. MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO LOCK OR UNLOCK THE DOOR. I'M EXPERIENCING THIS PROBLEM WITH PASSENGER DOOR & THE DRIVERS DOOR IS STARTING TO ACT SLOPPY ALSO. THIS IS A PROBLEM EXPERIENCED BY MANY BMW OWNERS OF DIFFERENT MODELS. BESIDES BEING POORLY DESIGNED IT'S VERY EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR; APPROX. $500 TO $800 PER LOCK...NOTE "THE REPAIR DOES NOT REQUIRE NEW LOCK CYLINDERS, JUST THE HARDWARE THAT HOLD THE CYLINDER INPLACE, BUT THIS HARDWARE IS DIFFICULT TO FIND & THE BMW DEALER IS USUALLY THE ONLY PLACE TO GET IT AT A HIGH COST. I HAVE SEEN DOOR LOCK CYLINDER ASSEMBLY HARDWARE ONLINE FOR UNDER $20.00; BUT BMW CHARGES $100 TO $200." BMW PRIDES ITSELF ON QUALITY. I THINK THEY SHOULD STAND BEHIND THEIR MOUTH! I'VE HAD CARS OVER 40 YEARS OLD. THEY'VE HAD A LOT OF PROBLEMS, BUT DOOR LOCK CYLINDER ASSEMBLIES, NO & IT WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN THIS EXPENSIVE TO FIX! THANK YOU *TR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-12
- VIN: WBACN53421L
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE CONSUMER STATED BARREL CYLINDER IN THE PASSENGER RIGHT SIDE DOOR JUST TURNS WHEN THE KEY IS INSERTED AND TURNS AROUND AND DOES NOT ENGAGE. *BF
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-04
- VIN: WBACN33451L
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I HAVE A Z3 2001. THE CAR KEEPS STALLS WHILE DRIVING. THE BMW SERVICE DEPARTMENT IN COLUMBUS OHIO HAS BEEN UNABLE DETERMINE THE PROBLEM AND ARE UNABLE TO REPAIR IT. THEY SAID IT WAS A FUEL PUMP, THEN SAID IT WAS THE IDLE CONTROL VALVE THEN SAID THEY STILL DO NOT KNOW WHAT IS WRONG WITH IT.. THEY'VE HAD IT ON AND OFF SINCE MAY 6. (ABOUT ONE MONTH). THE CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE WHILE STALLING WITHOUT WARNING. THE ENGINE LIGHT DOES NOT COME ON AFTER THE CAR STALLS. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING A CAR THAT STALLS. *TR
TIRES,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-26
- Components: TIRES,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 BMW Z3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL FOUR VALVE STEMS HAD TO BE REPLACED ON HIS VEHICLE BECAUSE THEY WERE CRACKED AND CAUSED AIR TO LEAK FROM THE TIRES. THE VALVE STEMS WERE TECH INTERNATIONAL, MODEL TR413. THE TIRES WERE MANUFACTURED BY TOYO. THE PART NUMBER AND SERIAL NUMBER FOR THE VALVE STEMS WERE UNKNOWN. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 29,861.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-19
- VIN: WBACN53401L
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE SEAT MOTOR DID NOT WORK, DEALER REPLACED THE MOTOR. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-20
- VIN: WBACN53401L
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE DEALER REPLACED THE FAULTY ELECTRONIC SWITCH IGNITION ON 3 SEPARATE OCCASIONS, WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STALL. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-20
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF, THE DEALER REPLACED THE BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR.*JB
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-20
- VIN: WBACN53401L
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE FRONT TIRE DID NOT HOLD AIR.*JB
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-01
- VIN: WBACN33431L
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THIS DEFECT WAS NOT CAUSED BY AN ACCIDENT, HOWEVER THE POTENTIAL DANGER TO THE PASSENGERS IN THE VEHICLE IS AN OPEN QUESTION. THE DRIVER'S SEAT IN MY 2001 Z3 ROCKS BACK AND FORTH WHEN ACCELLERATING, COMING TO A STOP OR EVEN WHEN MERELY SHIFTING MY WEIGHT ON MY RIGHT LEG WHEN MOVING MY RIGHT FOOT FROM ACCELLERATOR TO BRAKE. I HAVE NOTIFIED BOTH MY DEALER, BMW CLEVELAND, AND BMW NORTH AMERICA OF THE PROBLEM. THE DEALER INITIALLY DENIED THAT A PROBLEM EXISTED THEN, AFTER GETTING BMW NORTH AMERICA'S CUSTOMER SERVICE INVOLVED, ADMITTED THE PROBLEM AND ATTEMPTED TO FIX THE PROBLEM. HOWEVER, BY OCTOBER OF 2002 THE PROBLEM HAS RETURNED. THE DEALER HAS NOW UPON A LATER VISIT STATED NOTHING CAN BE DONE. I AM ONCE AGAIN IN CONTACT WITH BMW NORTH AMERICA WHO DENIES THAT I HAVE A PROBLEM AND DENIES BEING AWARE THAT THIS PROBLEM IS A PERVASIVE DESIGN DEFECT AMONG Z3'S. I HAVE LOCATED AND FORWARDED TO BMW NORTH AMERICA DOCUMENTATION THAT LOOSE SEATS ARE IN FACT A PERVASIVE PROBLEM AMONG Z3'S. THAT COUNTLESS OWNERS HAVE REPORTED THIS PROBLEM TO THEIR DEALERS AND THAT OTHER OWNERS HAVE COMMUNICATED THE EXISTENCE OF THIS PROBLEM TO BMW NORTH AMERICA REPRESENTATIVES. I HAVE ALSO DIRECTED BMW TO AN INTERNET FORUM WHERE AT LEAST 70 OTHER OWNERS HAVE CORROBORATED THAT THEY HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. IN ADDITION, ONE OF THE OWNERS ON THAT WEBSITE HAS ENGINEERED NYLON BUSHINGS IN AN ATTEMPT TO REMEDY THIS PROBLEM. HE HAS REPORTED TO ME THAT HE HAS DISTRIBUTED BUSHINGS TO APPROXIMATELY 150 Z3 OWNERS. HOWEVER, TO DATE, BMW NORTH AMERICA HAS NOT RESPONDED TO MY MOST RECENT ALLEGATIONS AND SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION. DT
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-15
- VIN: WBACN33441L
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT FREEWAY LEFT REAR TIRE BLEWOUT, CAUSING CONSUMER TO PULL OVER. DEALER NOTIFIED. SIZE2255016, DOTMXMXE. *AK THE INVESTIGATION SHOWED THAT THE TIRE FAILURE WAS NOT CAUSED BY ROAD HAZARD. *YH
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-08
- VIN: WBACN53491L
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT MALFUNCTIONS. THE AUTOMATIC TENSION DOES NOT WORK. DEALER HAS ATTEMPTED TO REPAIR TWICE AND TOLD ME THIS IS JUST THE WAY IT IS. IT IS UNSAFE AS IT DOES NOT TIGHTEN AROUND PASSENGER AND PROVIDE ADEQUATE SAFETY IN THE EVENET OF A CRASH. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-21
- VIN: WBACN33411L
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,SEATS
- Summary: ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR LIGHTS DIM IN BRIGHTNESS UNEXPECTEDLY WHEN AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM CYCLES. DEALERSHIP HAS EXAMINED VEHICLE AND INFORMED CONSUMER THIS IT IS AN INHERENT PROBLEM WITH VEHICLE, AND THERE IS NOTHING THAT CAN BE DONE TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM, ON LAST VISIT DEALER REPLACED ALTERNATOR, CONSUMER AND DEALER WORKING OUT TRADE-IN DEAL.*AK *TT CONSUMER STATES WHILE DRIVING, ENGINE IDLE STARTS GOING UP AND DOWN, AND VEHICLE ALSO LOSES POWER WHEN THE A/C IS ON, DEALER STATED THIS IS NORMAL REACTION OF THE VOLTAGE REGULATOR TO THE SUDDED INCREASE IN ELECTRICAL LOAD. RIGHT SIDE SEAT SWITCH IS LOOSE AND GETS STUCK, DEALER REPLACED SEAT SWITCH. CONSUMER HEARS A SQUEAKING/POPPING NOISE AT REAR OF DRIVERS DOOR OR CONVERTIBLE TOP NEAR DRIVERS SHOULDER AREA. *SLC
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-31
- VIN: WBACM53451L
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SPEEDOMETOR IS INCORRECT BY 9.4 MILES. VEHICLE IS GOING SLOWER THAN SPEEDOMETOR IS READING. MANUFACTURER WILL NOT ALLOW DEALERS TO FIX PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SPEEDOMETER FAILED TO TELL EXACT MILEAGE OF VEHICLE. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-15
- VIN: ADD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: M SERIES. SHORTLY AFTER STARTING VEHICLE IT WILL STALL WHEN SLOWING DOWN. THIS HAPPENS ABOUT 75 % OF THE TIME. VEHICLE TAKEN TO DEALER 3-4 TIMES, AND ENGINE COMPUTER WAS UPDATED. HOWEVER, THIS DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM.*AK
2001 Bmw Z3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2001 Bmw Z3.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Positive 2001 Bmw Z3 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Bmw Z3 problems:
Beginner's BMW Z3 Buying Guide | Common Problems | What You ...
Mar 24, 2021 ... Thanks to Car Throttle and Colin Furze, the Z3 is gaining in popularity with more and more people picking up the plucky roadster.
2001 Z3 2.5i | BimmerFest BMW Forum
Jul 26, 2012 ... A common issue with most all Z3s, is a water leak in the trunk..If the Z3 that you are considering has water in the trunk, don't let that deter ...
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Jun 20, 2023 ... Today we look at the top 10 problems on the BMW Z3. I think you'll see that the Z3 has some quirks and issues that need to be addressed; ...
2001 BMW Z3 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 2001 BMW Z3? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2001 BMW Z3.
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May 31, 2022 ... BMW #Z3 #E36/7 Buyers review on the BMW X6 built between 2008 and 2014. Video credits; BMW Z3 3.0i Roadster 231PK! | YOUNGTIMER!
Other years of Bmw Z3
Are you having problems with your 2001 Bmw Z3?
Garett Blanda 2025-01-08
The car is absolutely gorgeous, and I couldn't be happier with my 2001 Z3. Despite only having practical experience driving a manual, I was able to get the hang of it within a week thanks to this car's excellent performance. The handling is superb, allowing for tight turns and making driving on curved roads and U-turns an absolute blast. The engine has a nice low purr, and the ride is smooth with minimal cabin noise. Although there are a couple of minor inconveniences, such as the passenger side door not opening from the outside and a slight leak in the roof, they don't detract from the overall excitement of driving this car. I know that repairs will eventually be necessary for a 15-year-old car, but until then, I plan on thoroughly enjoying every day with my Z3.
Fidel Corwin 2025-01-06
Hey, I really appreciate Honda and Infiniti, but in my opinion, BMW is just unbeatable.
Jayson Bailey 2024-11-10
I've been driving my Z since 5/02 and have put 10K miles on it, only in good weather. While it can be drafty, noisy, and uncomfortable, I've found ways to make it work for me. I did have some trouble with the sound system being boomy with the top up and muddy with it down, but buying a rear windscreen helped a lot. The M3 leather seats can be a bit hot and tight, but I'm still able to find a comfortable position. The plastic window and premium wheels can be a bit tricky to clean, but the paint quality is fantastic and really shines up. The torque is incredible and downshifts aren't required for highway passing. The 5-speed is smooth and the steering is precise. The DSC has helped me out a few times. Overall, I'm really going to miss this car.
Ben Klocko 2024-11-09
In general, I really love my Z3. Although it has some flaws, the overall driving experience is very positive. If I had to do it over again, I might consider purchasing a Honda S2000 instead.
Nathan Vandervort 2024-11-08
Great car! It's so fun to drive and it's rust-free. The previous owner took great care of it and I'm replacing wear items at my leisure. Good times!